Some of the most fascinating, functional and trend-setting visions from Australia’s interior design community were on show as leaders from across the sector came together to share ideas and debate issues at Design Inn 2021.
Hosted by one of Adelaide’s most exciting new hotels, EOS by SkyCity, the event was presented by Hansen Yuncken and Shape.
Event delegates saw a strong line-up panel discussions and presentations showcasing some of Australia’s most acclaimed and unique hotels and restaurants that are wowing the public on a daily basis.
In all, five enthralling panel discussions were conducted, canvassing issues including how hotels can serve as placemakers for their communities. The group also looked at how operators can maintain brand standards while still addressing the ‘Next Normal’ in terms of the experience their guests can enjoy.
The event saw three Masterclass sessions – a special new feature which saw three mini keynote presentations given by architects and designers who have overseen the look of some of Australia’s most visually stunning and exciting hotels over the past year. In 2021, these presentations featured host venue, EOS by SkyCity, which was led by General Manager, Jodi Brown.
The second Masterclass was conducted by Juliet Ashworth from Chada, who took delegates through the highly unique design story surrounding Wildlife Retreat at Taronga Zoo, which saw the company create a hotel and associated facilities around a working zoo, factoring in issues such as animal welfare and their own housing requirements while still keeping the guest experience front of mind.
Further panel sessions were held to discuss issues such as ‘Wellbeing in Design’ and ‘The Next Normal’ which looked at how designers must factor in the mental and physical condition of guests following Australia’s experience with the COVID-19 pandemic.
The second panel covered issues such as how design businesses are coping with the changing market dynamics and the strategies they are implementing to do so. This panel was hosted by Scott Carver Director, Angela Biddle.
The final masterclass of the day shined the spotlight on 2020 Paul Davis Award winner, Stillwater Seven, with Cumulus Studio Director, Todd Henderson, taking delegates through his design muse which led to his selection by judges last year.
The day concluded with a special live cross to New York City, where Angela Biddle conducted a special keynote interview with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts SVP Design, Isabel Pintado.
After a half-day of plenary sessions, delegates then broke into groups and taken on tours of some of Adelaide’s newest hotels, including the host venue and nearby Crowne Plaza Adelaide and Oval Hotel. Guests then reconvened back at SkyCity for the official welcoming drinks and a great opportunity to network and make new acquaintances.
Design Inn photography by Asher Milgate.